Evacuation orders issued as wildfires rage in central California, including the French Fire near Yosemite. Over 900 acres burned, with extreme heat and dry conditions complicating efforts.
Bollywood Fever: Evacuation orders have been issued in central California due to the latest wildfire outbreak amidst a scorching heat wave. The French Fire, near Yosemite National Park in Mariposa County, has burned more than 900 acres since it erupted on Thursday and was 20% contained as of Friday evening, according to fire officials.
The Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office has ordered residents in parts of Mariposa County to evacuate, impacting approximately 1,100 people. Fire crews have been working diligently to establish a fireline around the eastern side of the community of Mariposa overnight, focusing their efforts on that area, according to Cal Fire.
The cause of the French Fire remains under investigation.
In another part of the state, the Thompson Fire in Butte County has burned over 3,700 acres and was 46% contained as of Friday morning. Twenty-five structures have been destroyed, and three firefighters have sustained heat-related injuries while battling the blaze, officials said. Cal Fire reported that firefighters are continuing to strengthen containment and control lines despite the hot and dry conditions expected to persist into early next week.
The cause of the Thompson Fire is also under investigation. In response to the ongoing threat, California Governor Gavin Newsom proclaimed a state of emergency in Butte County on Wednesday, a day after the fire ignited.
The largest active fire in California, the Basin Fire in the Sierra National Forest, has burned more than 14,000 acres and was 46% contained as of Friday morning. Over 1,300 fire crews are battling the blaze in steep, rugged terrain. The U.S. Forest Service has warned that extreme heat and dry conditions anticipated over the next few days could further fuel the fire’s growth. The Basin Fire started on June 26, and its cause remains under investigation.
As California battles these and other wildfires, residents are urged to stay informed about evacuation orders and safety protocols. The combined efforts of firefighters and emergency services are focused on protecting lives and properties while contending with the challenging weather conditions.
How to Stay Safe During Wildfire Season:
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with local news and emergency services for the latest information on fires and evacuation orders.
- Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like water, food, medications, important documents, and a first aid kit.
- Have a Plan: Know multiple routes out of your area and have a communication plan with family members.
- Follow Evacuation Orders: If an evacuation order is given, leave immediately. Delaying can put you and emergency responders at greater risk.
- Protect Your Home: Clear flammable vegetation away from your home and keep gutters and roofs clear of debris.
The ongoing heat wave and dry conditions make this wildfire season particularly dangerous. It is crucial for residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and prepared.
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